Cooking for two can be a challenge, especially if you’re on a tight budget. But it doesn’t have to be expensive to make delicious and satisfying meals. Here are some cheap recipe ideas for 2 that will help you put together tasty meals without breaking the bank.
One-Pot Wonders
One-pot meals are a lifesaver for busy couples. They’re quick, easy to make, and require minimal cleanup. Try this budget-friendly pasta dish: in a large pot, combine 1 cup pasta, 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (such as carrots, celery, or zucchini), 1/4 cup chopped onion, 2 cups broth, and your favorite seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked through. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Another one-pot wonder is this vegetarian chili. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and garlic in a touch of oil until softened. Add 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, 1 cup vegetable broth, and a blend of chili spices. Bring to a simmer and cook for at least 30 minutes, or until the chili has thickened. Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips.
Budget-Friendly Entrees
These entrees are not only cheap but also packed with flavor. Try this baked chicken with vegetables: season 2 chicken breasts with your favorite spices and bake in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Serve with roasted vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and onions.
Another budget-friendly entree is this cheesy tuna melt. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter. Add 1 can (6 ounces) tuna, drained, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until warmed through. Place 2 slices bread on a baking sheet and spread each with 1/4 cup shredded cheese. Top with the tuna mixture and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Quick and Easy Sides
These simple sides are perfect for rounding out your meal. Try this roasted broccoli: toss 1 head of broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in a 400-degree Fahrenheit oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
Another quick and easy side is this sautéed green beans. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet. Add 1 bag (10 ounces) frozen green beans and season with salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Conclusion
With these cheap recipe ideas for 2, you can easily put together delicious and satisfying meals without breaking the bank. So the next time you’re cooking for two on a budget, try one of these recipes. You won’t be disappointed.
Remember to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Cooking cheap meals for 2 can be a fun and rewarding way to save money and enjoy tasty food.
